Head Assistant Men’s Wrestling Coach

Graceland University is seeking a dynamic full-time Head Assistant Men’s Wrestling Coach to assist in all operations of a nationally competitive collegiate men’s wrestling program. Applicants must possess a strong work ethic, critical thinking and decision-making skills, and the ability to appropriately connect, mentor and develop the complete student-athlete. We are seeking a passionate coach who is committed to cultivating a culture of excellence, character, and growth for our student-athletes to live meaningful and productive lives.

Graceland University is a private liberal arts university located in Lamoni, Iowa and a proud member institution in one of the most competitive NAIA wrestling conferences in the country, the Heart of America Athletic Conference. The University is conveniently located 1 hour south of Des Moines, Iowa and just under 2 hours north of Kansas City, Missouri.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, implementation, and oversight of all aspects of the men’s wrestling program.
• Coach, teach, and train student-athletes in all aspects of wrestling.
• Recruitment of student-athletes through the entire enrollment process that fits the culture of the wrestling program, athletics department, & University.
• Oversee all social media and marketing efforts of the wrestling program.
• Administer academic success initiatives to enable and help student-athletes succeed academically.
• Support implementation of all retention and persistence initiatives.
• Active role in the mentoring and wellbeing of all student-athletes within the wrestling program.
• Assist in all associated components of competition including development of competition schedule, travel organization, officiating, and results/statistics submission and tracking.
• Assist in tracking and managing the program’s yearly operating budget.
• Contribute to fundraising initiatives including campaigns, alumni relations, camps/clinics, and the creation of new initiatives.
• Contribute to strength, conditioning, and nutrition programs providing student-athletes with resources to enable their success.
• Oversight of all assistant coaches and their respective roles and responsibilities within the program and department.
• Work collaboratively with all wrestling coaches, athletic department staff, and multiple campus units to ensure a positive and successful student-athlete experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Effective communication, recruitment, and public relation skills.
• Strong organizational, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Competent knowledge of sport specific techniques, skill development and execution.
• An understanding of how to cultivate and manage successful team culture.
• The ability to understand and articulate program vision, values, and standards.
• Demonstrated competency in helping to meet program objectives, working independently, and supervising others.
• An ability to communicate with and interact positively with students, faculty, staff, and the broader University community.
• Knowledge of the operational use of computers, media devices, and social media.
• The ability to contribute to a safe and functional working environment.
• An appreciation of and a willingness to adhere to the NAIA philosophy, rules, and regulations.
• Ability to work collaboratively, follow direction and adapt as a member of a coaching staff and athletic team.

Position will remain open until filled. Send letter of application, resume, and three references using the application form below or email to personnel@graceland.edu.

Application Form